The well-being and mental health of the Defence Team remains key to our readiness and success. Further, for those of us in the RCN, looking after one another has always been at the heart of being a good shipmate and a fundamental principle of our divisional system. For these reasons, and because Maritime Forces Pacific prides itself on remaining in the vanguard of CAF efforts regarding the socio-institutional issues that matter to sailors and Canadians generally, we look forward to tomorrow’s “Bell Let’s Talk Day” conversation.

Tomorrow, Bell will donate 5 cents for every text or phone call made on the Bell Aliant and Bell Canada network to mental health programs. If you’re not a Bell customer you can still contribute by tweeting #BellLetsTalk and sharing the Bell Let’s Talk Day image on Facebook from Facebook.com/BellLetsTalk.

I want to personally encourage every member of the defence team as well as their family and friends to take part in this initiative. We all have a significant role to play in eliminating the stigma associated with mental health and ensuring those who need help receive the support they need.

Every member of the defence team has a role in ensuring the physical and mental health of their colleagues. Through building mental resiliency throughout your organizations and units, encouraging members to seek the help they need, and supporting those who are receiving care, we will build a stronger team.

If you, a family member, friend or colleague is struggling, remember, you are not alone. The Canadian Armed Forces provides a variety of mental health services and resources to its members and their families.

For more information on these resources you can visit www.forces.gc.ca/yourenotalone, or download the Canadian Armed Forces app on your phone or tablet, which contains a variety of resources including: 24/7 member assistance, support and health services, family support programs, and morale and welfare services.

We are committed to building and sustaining a healthy, respectful, and safe workplace and ensuring the right programs and services are in place. Together we can and will eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness.